Question
Butterwort, Venus flytrap, a Sarrecenia Purple Pitcher variation, and two temperate sundews.

The issue I need clarification on is a simple one. Do I need to put a thin layer of sphagnum moss around the base of the plant that covers the topsoil? Is this necessary, or only an optional step for growing carnivorous plants? Would sphagnum moss be better for some carnivorous plants than others?

Thanks for your time in reading and responding to my question!

Answer
Hi Devon,

All of these plants appreciate having some live sphagnum moss on their media, especially the Sarracenia and temperate sundews.  However, dried, long-fiber sphagnum is of little benefit (this moss is dead) unless you're using it for a top-dressing to minimize splash erosion from rain.

Devon, since it looks like you are new to growing carnivorous plants, consider taking a look at our DVD series.  They can help get you headed the right direction, and help you avoid the pitfalls so common to new growers, and avoid all the conflicting information you read on the internet.  They are kind of a "CP 101".  The money you spend on those will save you lots in dead plants later.  http://cobraplant.com/index.php?main_page=index&cPath=38

Good Growing!

Jeff Dallas
Sarracenia Northwest
http://www.cobraplant.com